Althorp Corporate Brochure

A Unique Family - A Unique Home

Welcome Sometimes I forget what a magnificent, historic place Althorp is; because for me, it’s simply ‘home’. When I walk through the doors, the first thing that strikes me isn’t the immense John Wootton canvasses covering the walls, or the imposing gilded lantern that hangs from the towering ceiling above: it’s the remarkable sense of warmth. And judging by the comments of our many visitors and guests, I’m not alone.

This combination of comfort and grandeur is a rare find – and that, I believe, is what makes Althorp such a desirable setting for so many different kinds of events.

Whatever the occasion, I hope you enjoy spending time in this beautiful place as much as I do.

Earl Spencer

A Lasting Impression Althorp is the kind of place that takes your breath away the moment you first see it. Not simply because it’s one of the most beautiful stately homes in England, but because it brings 500 years of history to life before your very eyes.

Home to the Spencer family since 1508, Althorp showcases one of Europe’s finest private collections of furniture, paintings and ceramics. Stunning silk-embellished walls are the backdrop for iconic works by Reynolds, Gainsborough and Van Dyck, while outside, 550 acres of glorious walled parkland have provided the playground for 19 generations of Spencers.

Read on to find out more about hosting an exclusive event here, and experience the unique warmth of this historic family home for yourself.

LEFT AND BELOW: THE GREAT ROOM BOTTOM: TREASURES FROM THE ALTHORP COLLECTION

LEFT AND BOTTOM: THE LIBRARY BELOW: THE PAINTERS PASSAGE

The Ultimate Location If location is everything, Althorp has it all – secluded lakeside retreats, formal lawns lined with ancient oaks and an array of picturesque villages, farms and golf clubs scattered about the surrounding countryside.

Secure amidst Althorp’s idyllic private parkland, you’d be forgiven for thinking that urban life was a million miles away. In fact, the House is a mere 10-minute drive from the M1 motorway, under an hour from major cities such as Oxford, Cambridge and Birmingham and less than an hour-anda-half from London – or just 30 minutes if you take advantage of our private helipad.

It’s little wonder guests find Althorp so easy to get to – and so hard to leave.

LEFT: THE VIEW FROM THE DEER PARK

Make Yourself at Home It may be the long-standing seat of the Spencer family, but for the duration of your stay, Althorp House will be exclusively yours. And that doesn’t just include the sumptuously-furnished state apartments, bedroom suites and 550 acres of parkland; you’ll receive the dedicated services of the family’s resident staff too – from a personal butler and housekeeper to Earl Spencer’s personal chef.

Whether you are with us for three hours or three days, you and your guests will experience an exceptional level of hospitality.

A bespoke, fine-dining menu, beautiful custom-designed gifts – even fresh flowers of your choice in every bedroom, if you so desire.

Every last detail considered and reconsidered to be as unique as you are.

LEFT: THE SOUTH DRAWING ROOM NEXT PAGE: THE MARLBOROUGH ROOM SET FOR DINNER

LEFT: THE SUNDERLAND ROOM BELOW: THE BILLIARD ROOM BOTTOM: THE LIBRARY

A Place for Everything Whichever way you look through its elegant Georgian window panes, the view at Althorp is guaranteed to make an impression. Once the scene of courtly balls, political meetings and even secret marriages, each intriguing room in the house now provides an inspirational backdrop for an array of present-day events – whether it’s a banquet for two-hundred in the 115-foot Picture Gallery, a relaxed afternoon tea by the fire in the Library or a major board meeting in the regal surroundings of The Great Room.

Large, atmospheric spaces such as the Saloon with its grand oak staircase of the Marlborough Room with its ornate chandeliers and silverware, provide a dream setting for civil ceremonies or champagne receptions, while the smaller, more intimate Ante or Sunderland Rooms make perfect break-out areas after meetings – or a comfortable after-dinner retreat for parties of all sizes. With all these unique spaces at your disposal, the choice is yours.

LEFT: THE MARLBOROUGH ROOM SET FOR EVENING DINNER

TOP LEFT AND BELOW: THE GREAT ROOM BOTTOM LEFT: THE PICTURE GALLERY BOTTOM: AFTERNOON TEA IN THE ANTE ROOM

From Dusk to Dawn Whether you choose to spend the night amidst the elegant furnishings of the India Silk Bedroom or the plush, opulent décor of the King William Bedroom, an overnight stay at Althorp is guaranteed to make you feel like royalty. Not least because many of its guest suites have been graced by kings, queens and statesmen for over five centuries; from William of Orange in 1695 to Queen Mary and King George V in 1913.

Indeed, the splendid Oak Bedroom even witnessed the First Earl Spencer and his fiancé, Georgiana Poyntz, in 1755.

Few places could boast such auspicious credentials for a bride and groom’s wedding night – but then again, few places could compare for their big day either.

LEFT: THE KING WILLIAM BEDROOM

LEFT: THE PRINCESS OF WALES BEDROOM BOTTOM LEFT: THE GEORGIANA SUITE BELOW: THE QUEEN MARY BEDROOM BOTTOM: THE OAK BEDROOM

From Dusk to Dawn The sheer beauty and scale of Althorp makes it an incredibly versatile venue – and we’re every bit as flexible when it comes to arranging your bespoke programme of activities. Whether you’re mixing business with pleasure or surprising guests with a delightful twist on your event, tell us what you want and we’ll make it happen – from hot-air balloon excursions to quad biking.

Naturally, Althorp also offers a variety of traditional country pursuits, such as archery, shooting or hunting. And with one of England’s most experienced gamekeepers managing an equally acclaimed shoot, there really is no better place to perfect your skills in this most classic of English rural sports.

To discuss your requirements, please contact one of our team.

Althorp, Northampton, NN7 4HQ. Telephone: +44 (0) 1604 770107 events@althorp.com www.spencerofalthorp.com

ALTHORP HOUSE, NORTHAMPTONSHIRE NN7 4HQ events@althorp.com